Whether you’re logging miles on Strava, swimming at the YMCA, or hitting the iron at your local gym, the best recovery shoes are the secret to better performance, even when you’re doing nothing at all.

“(Recovery shoes) are extremely important in allowing our bodies to recover, providing relief, not only to the feet, but also to the knees, hips and lower back,” Dr. Brad Schaeffersays DPM, a board-certified foot surgeon. “Return to a regular position sneaker (after training) it’s basically the same as walking and running. Furthermore, everyone runners and the swimmers elevators and people who are on their feet all day working can all benefit from high-quality recovery shoes.

So we are here at GQ Recommends beating our lower bodies in the name of science, then trying on recovery shoes at a shoe store to find the best fit for each type of active person.

The Best Recovery Shoes, According to GQ

Best Recovery Shoes Overall: Kane Revive Recovery Shoes

Kane’s Revives have become a mainstay of many fitness influencers’ feeds, and despite the barrage of content, we can attest that they’re actually pretty awesome. Every element of these shoes’ design is intended to reduce the fatigue and strain associated with standing, from the raised nubs of the insole to the support along the heel, arch, and forefoot. The midsole is made from a soft, cushioned EVA foam derived from sugar cane, while the outsole provides the support you need.

The super flexible material almost feels like you’re not wearing shoes when you walk, and the ventilation (reminiscent of Crocs) is great for breathability to prevent sweaty feet. I admit that the ventilation didn’t do me much good, even though I sweat incredibly easily. These are my favorite pair of recovery shoes after long runs or post-leg days, and wearing them is almost like a reward for putting so much strain on my lower body.

Best Budget Recovery Shoes: Lululemon Restfeel Slide, $58

I live in a house with no shoes at home and the Restfeel slides have been the biggest improvement over my regular old slippers. They are easy to put on, although I recommend sizing up if you have wide feet, as the strap is a bit restrictive for those with anything other than a narrow foot. The cushioning is a pleasure to walk on and, as you’ll notice from the side profile, provides good arch and heel support for added comfort. I also like the rubber outsoles, which prevent me from slipping in case the ground is a little slippery.

Best Recovery Shoes: Jordan Roam Slides, $60

The Jumpman would make a good recovery shoe for ballplayers, as few athletes have to rely on their feet and legs as much as hoops. Let’s be honest: recovery shoes are usually pretty ugly. Jordan’s Roams are some of the nicest of the bunch and cost a reasonable $60 for affordable recovery. The firm but plush foam is nice to walk on, but it doesn’t feel like there’s as much support where you need it, especially in the heel and around the arch. But if you’re planning to do a post-workout BEC, you can at least feel good knowing your form isn’t horrible.

Best all-terrain recovery shoes: Arc’teryx Kragg shoe, $160

Almost all the recovery shoes we offer have non-slip soles, but the Arc’teryx Kraggs are the best at staying upright, regardless of slippery or uneven terrain, thanks to the Vibram Megagrip sole. We love that these are convertible mules so you can either slide them on like slides or slip them on like slip-ons for a little extra stability and support. The upper is made from a breathable mesh, but don’t expect your feet to stay dry for too long – you might still get a little stuffy there, especially if the weather is warm. These are also a more luxurious pair of recovery shoes, and we recommend wearing them outside whenever you go about your day.

Best Recovery Slides: Lusso Cloud Scenario Slide, $65

These lightweight and durable slides from Lusso Cloud are extremely comfortable and easy to put on thanks to their thoughtful design. They’re slightly more expensive than the Lululemon slides we recommend, but we think they’re worth the few extra dollars (if you can spare them) for the added arch support and overall improvement in comfort. Ventilation is helpful in making your dogs feel like they’re not suffocating, and they’re fully washable to keep them as fresh as your feet, workout after workout.

Best All-Day Recovery Shoes: Stand+ AntiGrav1 Shoes, $120

As long as you’re not running a 5K or hitting the squat rack, you can wear recovery shoes every day for your usual 9 to 5 p.m. Those who are on their feet all day (service industry workers, nurses, etc.) have made their love for Stand+’s AntiGrav 1 shoes known in reviews because of how they make them feel during and after their shift. These lightweight recovery shoes literally feel like walking on clouds because of the way they support your feet.

Walking in these shoes has been very pleasant, and I’ll put them on when I’m about to make dinner or plan to do household chores that will keep me on my feet for a while. The shape of the bottom feels like I’m being propelled forward, so much so that sometimes I wonder if my feet are actually doing any work.

Best Recovery Shoes for Runners: Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3, $60

Hoka makes a number of Ora recovery shoes, and our preference for them depends on who tries them. I’m a fan of the Recovery Slide 3 because of their open-toe design, but what can’t be denied is how therapeutic they feel without looking like something your elderly grandparents would wear. The rocker bottom feels great to walk on, although we’d prefer a little more focused support in the insole to alleviate some of the pressure of being on your feet for a long time or having completed a tough workout.

Best Recovery Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Vionic Cove RX Recovery Sandal, $85

We covered the best running shoes for people with plantar fasciitisbut what about shoes to help with his recovery? Plantar fasciitisInflammation of the tissues that extend under the foot, from the toe to the heel, can lead to pain in the heel and arch, all the way to the Achilles tendon. Trust us, it’s not fun. If you’re prone to plantar fasciitis, investing in a pair of recovery shoes like Vionic’s Cove RX sandals can help relieve your pain before it gets worse: a chronic condition called plantar fasciosis.